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Antique & Vintage Styles |
The various styles of antique jewelry can be identified from the different eras that have gone by. Georgian Jewelry is best exemplified in chandelier earrings, riviere necklace and floral brooches. The romantic and sentimental Victorian Era had motifs of hearts, bows and flowers with the extensive use of semi-precious stones such as amethyst, opal garnet and coral. The Art Nouveau Period which signaled the coming of the “modern age” made use of nature motifs such as flowers, butterflies and dragonflies usually decorated with moonstones, opals and other translucent gemstones. A prevalent design during this time was the representation of the female head with long flowing hair.
Edwardian jewelry is characterized by flower garlands, stars, crescents and sporting motifs. Platinum and diamonds were used to create intricate filigree patterns which closely resembled lace. Popular jewelry pieces include the “dog collar”, a choker type necklace and the tiara. Pearls and peridots were very popular. Jewelries of the Art Deco Period emphasized bold, bright colors and geometric shapes. Popular motifs included the falcon and sphinx with emerald, sapphires and rubies as the preferred gems. Fashionable pieces included long earrings and diamond watches. Retro Jewelry derives much inspiration from Hollywood glamour with the elegant pearl jewelry and diamond cocktail rings as the must haves of the ladies during the 1950s. Large semi-precious stones such as the aquamarine and citrine set in yellow and rose gold pieces were the fashion dictate of the time.
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Antique & Vintage Resetting |
| Shops offering antique engagement rings offer a wide selection of antique style ring settings and mountings if you have already obtained a diamond or gemstone of your choice. They can also easily reset styles according to your own design for a unique engagement ring. Most of the existing styles offered are exact reproductions of other women’s (famous or otherwise) original engagement rings which can be crafted according to your choice of materials. |
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Antique and vintage engagement rings care |
| Antique and Vintage engagement rings are best removed before engaging in cleaning and sports activities. They should be inspected regularly by a jeweler for possible loose settings, bent prongs and other damages brought on by age. Cleaning it is best left to a professional as some chemicals easily damage older rings. |
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| Sources |
| The perfect antique or vintage engagement ring can be found within the families of both the potential groom and bride. This is where the ring would derive its sentimental value due to the personal connections involved. However, there are other sources such as antique and vintage stores, estate sales, internet, pawnshops and consignment shops should there be no heirloom piece available. |
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